Florida's spiny lobster sport season returns next week, spanning July 29-30. This annual event occurs on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year, welcoming both Florida residents and non-residents. The mini season offers recreational divers and snorkelers a two-day opportunity to harvest these prized crustaceans.
Daily bag limits are six lobsters per person in Monroe County and Biscayne National Park and 12 lobsters per person in the rest of Florida waters. On the water, possession limits equal the daily bag limit. Off the water on July 29, possession limits equal the daily bag limit, while on July 30, possession limits are double the daily bag limit.
All harvested spiny lobsters must have a carapace length exceeding three inches when measured in water. Possession and use of an approved measuring device is mandatory at all times, and all measurements must be taken while the lobster is still in the water. Night diving is prohibited in Monroe County during sport season only.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission defines diving as swimming at or below the water surface. Prohibited areas include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary no-take zones, Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Lobster Sanctuary, and five Coral Reef Protection Areas in Biscayne National Park. Required items include a valid Florida saltwater fishing license, spiny lobster permit if required, approved measuring gauge, dive flag and proper safety equipment, and cooler with ice for proper storage.